UAS Crew Member Selection

Insitu ScanEagle

            The Insitu ScanEagle is operated from a ground control station that only requires a single operator utilizing a single workstation (ScanEagle Unmanned Aircraft System, 2017). From this work station, the aircraft is controlled via point and click operations, and through real time aircraft control. This does not mean that that only a single crewmember is recommended however, as the aircraft is capable of operating for over 24 hours at a time. If sustained operations are to be required, multiple trained operators are going to be required depending on the desired shift schedules. In addition, personnel to help with launch and recovery operations will be needed. The ScanEagle is launched via either a trailer mounted or compact designed catapult system and recovered with a specialized SkyHook to catch the aircraft. Each of these systems will need personnel to operate and maintain them. The Mark 4 Launcher requires at least two operators two be set up (Mark 4 Launcher, 2017), and while it boasts being “low-maintenance,” preventative maintenance will always be a factor and issues are bound to eventually come up needing attention. The SkyHook can operate autonomously to catch the aircraft, but must still be set up prior to use (SkyHook, 2017).

            Because the ScanEagle weighs less than 55 pounds, it can technically be operated under 14 CFR Part 107, Summary of Small Unmanned Aircraft Rule, provided certain conditions are met. Some of these, however, are likely difficult considering the nature of the application, including the need to remain in the operators Visual Line of Site only, below a 400 foot above ground level ceiling, and during daylight hours only. If these conditions (along with the rest of them listed in Part 107) can somehow be met with this aircraft, the pilot(s) must pass an FAA mandated aeronautical knowledge test, or take a small UAS online course if a Part 61 pilot certificate is already held. Assuming that one or more of these flight restrictions cannot be met, which is more likely for this scenario, a Certificate of Waiver to CFR 14 Part 107 must be obtained from the FAA prior to operating the aircraft (FAA, 2014). Ideal candidates for operators of this aircraft are personnel with prior experience as a small UAS operator.

Ikhana (Predator B)

            The Ikhana is an MQ-9 Predator B remotely piloted aircraft utilized by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration for aeronautical research (Cobleigh, 2008). Ground control stations offered by General Atomics vary (Legacy, STORM, and Advanced Cockpit varients), but require both a pilot and a sensor operator (General Atomics, 2017). Like the ScanEagle, multiple crews will be required for long endurance operations, as the Predator B can operate for 27 continuous hours This larger aircraft does not have a launch and recovery system like the ScanEagle has, but requires an actual runway to take off and land. Additionally, maintenance crews with training specific to the Predator B will be required for preventative, scheduled, and unscheduled maintenance actions.

            Because the Ikhana will be operated in Beyond Line of Sight operations, and due to the aircraft’s weight, an exemption from the FAA under Section 333 of the FAA modernization and Reform Act of 2012 must be obtained in order to verify the airworthiness of the aircraft. Additionally, a certificate of waiver/certificate of authorization will most likely be required based on the determination of the Secretary of Transportation under section 333 (H.R. 658-62, 2012). The same Pilot requirements will be required as those listed above as part of the Part 107 requirements, but will be evaluated on a case by case basis (FAA, 2014). Ideal candidates for this aircraft are those with prior experience with the Predator B or similar systems, such as former military, border patrol, etc.